Chapter 51. Sir Zayn Really Said That?

The door creaked open slowly, letting in a soft draft from the hallway. The scent of warm bread and freshly boiled herbs drifted into the room before the figure appeared.

Ma Claudia stepped in, balancing a wooden tray with both hands. The sunlight from the narrow window fell across her face, softening the deep lines on her cheeks. She always had that calm, steady way of moving, as if nothing could rush her, even when the house was noisy.

Lucien blinked, momentarily caught between surprise and warmth. “Good morning, Ma Claudia,” he said, pushing himself up from the bed. His voice was still a little hoarse.

She gave him a small smile. “You don’t have to stand, child.” Her tone carried that gentle firmness that made it impossible to argue without feeling guilty.

Lucien hesitated for a second but remained standing, watching her as she crossed the room. She placed the tray carefully on the table by the wall, adjusting the cups so they wouldn’t slide. The steam fro